JSAUX is introducing three new custom faceplates for the Steam Machine, offering players a chance to personalize their handheld consoles with dynamic displays. These accessories are significant because they transform the device from a static plastic shell into an interactive component, enabling users to update the machine's appearance in real time. Buyers who value customization will have new options to distinguish their devices from the standard model.
JSAUX shows engineering prototypes for Steam Machine faceplates
The lineup includes two E-ink faceplates and one Color Dot Matrix faceplate, all designed to replace the default front cover of the Steam Machine. JSAUX describes the units shown as functional engineering prototypes created to demonstrate product concepts rather than final retail goods. The company notes that both the E-ink display UI and the connection method for the dot-matrix display are still under development and may change before launch.
- E-ink Faceplate (Color): Functional engineering prototype, multi-element collage design, retro button aesthetics
- E-ink Faceplate (B&W): Functional engineering prototype
- Color Dot Matrix Faceplate: Requires external power source, heavy design mode, sleek screen filling top of device
- Release Window: Q4 (Target)
The color E-ink faceplate features a multi-element collage design that departs from the single-element layouts seen in earlier prototypes. The black-and-white E-ink variant follows a similar functional approach but lacks the color capability. The third option, the Color Dot Matrix faceplate, provides a sleek screen that fills the entire top of the device but requires an external power source to operate.
JSAUX is actively polling its Discord community to determine whether an external power cable for the Dot Matrix faceplate would be acceptable to users. This feedback loop highlights the ongoing development of the connection method, which remains subject to change. The company aims to finalize these details before the product reaches consumers.
The target release window for all three faceplates is the fourth quarter of the current year. This timeline gives JSAUX time to refine the prototypes and address community feedback on power requirements. Consumers should expect the final designs to potentially differ from the engineering samples currently shown.
Source: JSAUX, SteamDeckHQ
